Terminal Deoxynucleotidyl Transferase-Mediated Deoxyuridine Triphosphate Nick End Labeling (TUNEL) Assay to Characterize Histopathologic Changes Following Thermal Injury

BACKGROUND: Despite the wide application of lasers and radiofrequency (RF) surgery in dermatology, it is difficult to find studies showing the extent of damage dependent on cell death. OBJECTIVE: We evaluated histopathologic changes following in vivo thermal damage generated by CO(2) laser, 1,444 nm long-pulsed neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (LP Nd:YAG) laser and RF emitting electrosurgical unit. METHODS: Thermal damage was induced by the above instruments on ventral skin of rat. Specimens were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, along with a terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay, to highlight the degree of irreversible cellular injury. RESULTS: The volume of vaporization was largest with the CO(2) laser. Area of cell death area identified by TUNEL assay, when arranged from widest to narrowest, was 1,444 nm LP Nd:YAG laser, CO(2) laser, and RF emitting electrosurgical unit. CONCLUSION: This histopathologic evaluation of the acute characterization of injury across devices may be advantageous for attaining better treatment outcomes.